The office of the Sole Representative of The Olu of Warri, Liaison to NNPCL and JV partners, has described as false and baseless the allegation that the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse the Third, has a company sponsoring vandalism of oil and gas pipelines.
This was made known during a press briefing held at the palace of the Olu of Warri, Agofe, in Warri South Local Government Area.
Addressing newsmen at the Palace of the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse the Third, the Sole Representative to the Olu of Warri, Liaison NNPCL and JV Partners, Prince Collins Edema, said the accusation that the monarch has a company sponsoring vandalism of oil and gas pipeline and illegal oil bunkering in the Niger Delta, is not only false but a deliberate act of blackmail aimed at tarnishing the image of the monarch.
Prince Collins Edema stressed that the attack is not only to the monarch, but also to the integrity of the Itsekiri Nation, adding that the Olu of Warri has dedicated his reign to fostering peace, economic prosperity, and social progress of the Itsekiri people and the entire Niger Delta.
While stressing that the Nigerian leadership has a responsibility to protect its citizens from defamation and wrongful accusations, Prince Collins Edema called on the Federal Government to investigate the false accusation on the Olu of Warri and bring those found guilty to book.
Prince Collins Edema said the Itsekiri Nation has a long-standing reputation for excellence, trade, diplomacy, and contribution to national development, adding that Itsekiri lands have hosted major oil installations, export terminals, and refineries, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
According to him, the allegations are not just an insult to the Olu of Warri, but an affront to the Itsekiri Nation as a whole, who have given so much to Nigeria’s economic stability.
Prince Collins Edema further called on journalists and media outlets to always be fair in their reportage, and avoid being used as tools for propaganda, blackmail, or political manipulation, stressing that sensationalism should never take precedence over truth.
He reaffirmed the unwavering loyalty and support of the people of Itsekiri Nation to the Olu of Warri, saying his leadership remains a guiding light for the people and no amount of slander can diminish the impact of his vision and dedication.
Prince Collins Edema was flanked by the Palace Director, and Mr Ben Eburajolor, amongst others.
